A window into the world of doors

In an age of fleeting trends, Doors of London, by Cath Harries and Melanie Backe-Hansen, stands as an enduring celebration of design, history, and craftsmanship. A rich tapestry of London’s architectural heritage, this book is as much a visual feast as it is an insightful exploration of the stories behind some of the capital’s most iconic entranceways. For door designers, manufacturers, and installers, this book offers not just inspiration, but a masterclass in how doors shape the character of a city and the lives within it.

A love letter to London’s entrances

From the sunlit Georgian squares of Mayfair to the bohemian streets of Shoreditch, the book takes the reader on a journey through London’s rich and varied doorways. Harries’ vibrant photography is paired with Backe-Hansen’s historical expertise to create an encyclopaedic collection of entrances that tell the story of London across time and space. Craftsmen, owners, and time itself have left their marks on these doors, transforming them into a silent gallery of urban life.

Each image invites contemplation. A bright red Victorian door, adorned with brass fittings, whispers of 19th-century prosperity. A hand-carved Gothic archway hints at ecclesiastical roots. These are not merely functional barriers but pieces of art, reflecting the aspirations, status, and culture of their creators and occupants. For those in the business of designing or installing doors, this book is a visual treasure trove, offering endless ideas for colour palettes, carvings, and hardware detailing.

The stories behind the wood and iron

Beyond its visual appeal, the book reveals the human tales embedded in these doorways. Backe-Hansen’s expertise as a social historian brings a sense of place and significance to the collection. The reader learns where Dr. Johnson penned his Dictionary, where Oscar Wilde faced his downfall, and where Mrs. Simpson crossed the threshold to meet the Prince of Wales. These vignettes elevate the book beyond a pictorial guide, grounding it in the social and cultural history of London.

Small, evocative details pepper the pages: horse rings, boot scrapers, and gas lanterns remind us of a time when these objects were essential, not ornamental. It’s a reminder to modern designers and manufacturers that every component of a door – from the knocker to the nameplate – can tell a story or serve a purpose.

A photographer’s obsession

Harries’ passion for doors leaps from every page. As she recounts in her introduction, her fascination began serendipitously in 2010 while photographing London pubs. Before long, doors became her obsession, leading her to scour the city for new gems to capture. Her dedication to documenting doors both famous and forgotten has resulted in an unparalleled collection of imagery. The result is a book that balances artistry with meticulous detail.

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“I became a bit obsessed by planning days to go out searching for new doors to photograph,” Harries writes, reflecting a commitment that any designer or craftsman will recognise. This same energy infuses the book, making it an essential reference for anyone seeking to design doors that blend function with beauty.

A delight for designers and dreamers alike

Readers have already hailed Doors of London as “an exquisite book” and “an adventure” that opens the eyes to the city’s hidden details. Its appeal spans a wide audience – from architects and historians to anyone captivated by London’s unique charm. For those in the door industry, it is both a professional resource and a reminder of the power of thoughtful design.

Doors of London is more than a book; it’s an invitation to see the world through a doorway. Harries and Backe-Hansen have crafted a work that is as inspiring as it is informative, blending stunning photography with compelling history. Whether displayed in a showroom, referenced for creative ideas, or simply enjoyed as a love letter to one of architecture’s most overlooked features, it deserves a place on every bookshelf. For anyone involved in the design, manufacture, or installation of doors, this book is a gateway to endless inspiration.

Doors of London is published by Sheldrake Press – Available from Amazon – RRP £25